Armed police descended on a quiet residential street in Epping, Essex, in a major counter-terrorism operation that culminated in the arrest of a suspect. The dramatic scene unfolded on Monday afternoon, bringing a significant portion of the town to a standstill.
Residents were met with a heavy police presence as officers, including specialists from the Metropolitan Police's Counter Terrorism Command, sealed off the area around Lindfield. The operation was the result of intelligence-led policing, though specific details of the threat have not been disclosed.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing a substantial number of armed units and tactical support vehicles cordoning off the property. One local resident described the scene as "frightening but controlled," noting the professionalism of the responding officers.
The operation concluded successfully with the arrest of an individual. A thorough search of the address was conducted to ensure there was no ongoing threat to the public. Police have confirmed that the action was pre-planned and not in response to any immediate danger.
An Essex Police spokesperson stated: "We can confirm that a man was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism. He remains in custody at a police station in London."
The arrest was carried out under the Terrorism Act 2000, highlighting the serious nature of the intelligence received. The police have moved to reassure the local community, emphasising that there is no believed to be any wider risk to the public following the operation.
